Abstract: A radio frequency identification (RFID) tag insertion cartridge configured for use in implanting a flexible RFID tag into a small animal using a needle-retraction implant tool. In embodiments, the cartridge includes a cartridge housing and a bevel cap. In embodiments, the cartridge housing is configured to receive a carriage portion inserted into a first end of the cartridge housing with a retractable needle extended out of a second end of the carriage portion to present the retractable needle in an extended position with the RFID tag carried within the retractable needle. In embodiments, the bevel cap has a proximal portion with a mating feature configured to mate with the cartridge housing and one or more needle capture elements configured to selectively couple to the needle in the extended position in a side-mountable manner without a direct axial force being exerted on the needle.

Abstract: An improved passive RFID tag configured for needle implantation in a tail of a rodent using a small diameter needle provides for increased read distances and effectiveness. In various embodiments, the RFID tag is comprised of an elongated flexible substrate having a pair of opposed surfaces with a UHF RFID chip positioned on a first of the opposed surfaces and is directly electrically connected to a closed-loop multi-layer folded dipole antenna disposed on both of the opposed surfaces of the substrate. An antenna is electrically connected to the RFID chip and includes at least an inductor as part of the closed-loop antenna. In embodiments, the RFID tag can be read with at least 90 percent effectiveness by a 30 dB RFID tag reader at least 5 cm from a tail of the rodent.

Abstract: An improved passive RFID tag configured for needle implantation in a tail of a rodent using a small diameter needle provides for increased read distances and effectiveness. In various embodiments, the RFID tag is comprised of an elongated flexible substrate having a pair of opposed surfaces with a UHF RFID chip positioned on a first of the opposed surfaces and is directly electrically connected to a closed-loop multi-layer folded dipole antenna disposed on both of the opposed surfaces of the substrate. An antenna is electrically connected to the RFID chip and includes at least an inductor as part of the closed-loop antenna. In embodiments, the RFID tag can be read with at least 90 percent effectiveness by a 30 dB RFID tag reader at least 5 cm from a tail of the rodent.